CHRISTUS Health breaks ground on $36 million cancer center in Longview

CHRISTUS Health broke ground today on a new, $36 million state-of-the-art cancer center in Longview, a 35,000 square-foot facility that will address the growing need for full-service cancer care in the region.

One in 2 men and 1 in 3 women in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes, with global rates increasing year after year, according to the American Cancer Society.

In East Texas, cancer incidence rates far outpace all other Texas counties, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

“With the alarming rate of cancer in our region and the country, the need for early diagnosis, innovative treatment and improved access is greater than ever before,” said Todd Hancock, president and chief executive officer of CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System. “This center signifies CHRISTUS Health’s commitment to build and impact countless East Texans both now and in the future.”

Gregg County is above the 90th percentile for cancer incidence rates in all Texas counties, with many of the counties in the region exceeding the statewide mortality rate average of 147 per 100,000 population, according to Texas DSHS.

The CHRISTUS Cancer Center, located on the CHRISTUS NorthPark campus at 323 E Hawkins Pkwy., will feature full-service oncology care, including spaces for outpatient clinic, lab services, pharmacy, infusion services, clinical research, advanced imaging, diagnostic and therapeutic services.

Dr. John DiPasquale, vice president of physician operations, said the center will feature an integrated multi-disciplinary approach to cancer care with an initial staff of nearly 40 clinical positions, including medical and radiation oncologists, nursing professionals, pharmacists, technologists, physician and administrative leadership and support staff.

“Our goal is to close the gaps in cancer care,” DiPasquale said. “Patients cared for at our center will have everything they need, from diagnosis to recovery. We will have it all under one roof.”

The facility will be fully integrated with the CHRISTUS electronic health record Epic, allowing for real-time patient information and availability within the CHRISTUS family of hospitals, clinics, and physicians.

“Patients present at a variety of access points for treatment within our system. Having access to patient information while they are undergoing cancer treatments, from a quality and safety perspective, cannot be overstated.” DiPasquale said. “This access enables us to make time-sensitive decisions, leading to more efficient care and better outcomes.”

Calling it a “21st century cancer center,” Chris Glenney, vice president of group operations for CHRISTUS Northeast Texas, praised CHRISTUS Health’s commitment, which includes an initial investment of $36 million in the facility, as well as a multi-million-dollar long-term investment in the service line.

“Our goal for all patients across the region is to provide the type of care that combines the latest advancements in detection and treatment along with hope and compassion, in keeping with our faith-based mission,” Glenney said. “We are going to be here for every part of your cancer journey.”

Hancock said that philanthropic support is essential, and he expects great support for a project with this type of community significance.

“This transformative initiative will bring advanced care, hope and healing to our community,” he said. “The facility will touch the lives in this community for generations to come.”

CHRISTUS Health engaged two design firms, Tyler-based Harris Craig Architects and Omaha, Nebraska-based HDR Inc., selected for their unique expertise in building cancer centers.

Nationwide interviews for a general contractor are currently underway, with final selection expected by end of January.

Hancock anticipates site preparation to begin immediately with overall construction to start shortly thereafter. Estimated completion for the CHRISTUS Cancer Center is in the fall of 2026.